Global Voices delegates are given the opportunity to learn about international affairs, interact with world leaders and observe the proceedings of a major diplomatic forum.

In preparation for the summit, Ms Baldwin must complete a two-month research fellowship, which recently involved meetings with ministers and diplomatic representatives in Canberra.

While in Canberra, Ms Baldwin met with Deputy Leader of the Federal Opposition, Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs and Shadow Minister for Trade Julie Bishop, Professor Peter Drysdale, from the Australian National University US Embassy, and the heads of APEC.

“It was such an amazing opportunity,” Ms Baldwin said. “I feel lucky to have met these people and make the connections I made.”

Ms Baldwin submitted her application to be part of the Global Voices Australian Youth Delegation after hearing about the opportunity from her lecturers.

“I was notified by phone that I had been successful two days prior to the pre-departure orientation in Canberra,” she said.

APEC consists of 21 Pacific Rim states and is the Asia Pacific’s premier regional forum. It aims to support sustainable economic growth and prosperity in the Asia Pacific region.

Since 1993, an annual Economic Leaders’ meeting has been held with Australia hosting APEC in 2007. The host company rotates each year. The United States of America will host the 2011 summit November 8-14, which Ms Baldwin is looking forward to attending.